Share this video

Watch Next

A police “special” who climbed the ranks to become Chief Inspector says the role is more important than ever as the North Wales force campaigns to recruit more Special Constables.

Chief Inspector Andy Moore says the role of the Special has changed “beyond recognition” in recent years, as financial pressures on police forces have increased the importance of the constables.

North Wales Police, which currently has 122 Special Constables, is hoping to recruit more, particularly in rural areas and from among the Welsh-speaking community.

CI Moore, 41, says the perception of Specials’ duties as visiting village fetes and other community events is outdated.

“The role of the Specials has changed beyond recognition since I joined in 2006,” he said.

“We’re having to come into our own and step up to the mark as a force within a force.

“Specials do everything that regular officers do, and have the same powers.

“We now have officers attached to CID, Roads Policing, Community Safety and the Arson Reduction Team, which was previously unheard of.”

North Wales Police Chief Inspector Andrew Moore

CI Moore, who has worked in the financial sector for 17 years, said balancing his day job and his police work gives him “the best of both worlds”.

“I had an interest in policing and considered it when I left school, but I fell into finance,” he said. “Joining the Specials has allowed me to fulfil my interests in policing without jeopardising my current career.”

CI Moore, who has responsibility for an anti-shoplifting operation currently running in Llandudno, says the financial climate has led to a more prominent role for the Specials.

“We are becoming more and more important because of the budgeting burden,” he said.

“We have had to become a resource in our own right, rather than being extras on the side. We are needed more than ever.

“The variety is the best part of the job. You never know what you’re walking into when you start on duty. The comradeship of the other officers means you will make friends for life.”

Specials have to commit at least 16 hours a month to their duties, although individuals can tailor hours to meet their needs.

CI Moore, who has two young children, admitted it can sometimes be difficult to balance commitments.

“The most difficult thing about being a Special is balancing work, home life and the police,” he said.

“But we all live in a community, and joining the Specials gives you the opportunity to help resolve the things that are wrong.

“This will give you the opportunity to do something about the situation, and will enable you to develop skills you can take back into your day-to-day life, like negotiation and communication skills.”

To view the application process and eligibility requirements, visit north-wales.police.uk.